The Associated Press
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD — Army Staff Sgt. Ty Michael Carter, who was born in Spokane and spent part of his youth there, will be presented the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry for courageous actions during combat in Afghanistan.
Carter will receive the nation’s highest military honor from President Obama in a White House ceremony on Aug. 26, the White House announced Friday.
He will be the fifth living recipient to receive the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Carter served at Combat Outpost Keating in Nuristan Province, where he was part of a unit of 54 soldiers who came under fierce attack from more than 400 insurgents on Oct. 3, 2009.
The assault killed eight U.S. soldiers and injured 25.
Without regard for his safety, Carter resupplied ammunition to fighting positions, provided first aid to a battle buddy, killed enemy troops, and risk his own life to save another soldier who was injured and pinned down by overwhelming enemy fire, according to an Army narrative.
He did this while under heavy fire that lasted for more than six hours.
Carter, 33, is married, and has three children, and now lists Antioch, Calif., as his home.
Now based at JBLM
At the time of his actions, Carter was a scout with Bravo Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
He is currently based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, near Tacoma, where he serves with the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.
Recipients of the Medal of Honor must display meritorious conduct that involves great personal bravery or self-sacrifice and the risk of one’s life.
